The assess solution limitations task is used to ascertain any components to the solution that could limit the full realization of value.
The business analyst should analyze the solution limitations to identify the root causes for under-performing and ineffective solutions and solution components.
The assess solution limitations task is very similar to the assess enterprise limitations task, so these tasks may be performed concurrently.
This assess solution limitations task only focuses on the assessment of internal factors.
The analysis of the solution may be performed at any point during the solution life cycle such as during its development, on a completed solution prior to full implementation, or on an existing solution that is currently working within an organization.
Regardless of the stage in which the analysis is performed, the assessment activities are similar and involve the same considerations.
There are three elements that can help with the assess solution limitations task and they are :
1. Identify Internal Solution Component Dependencies: the solution might have internal dependencies that could limit its performance.
The business analysts should identify the solution components which could have dependencies on other solution components, and then determine if there is anything about those dependencies or other components could limit solution performance and value realization.
2. Investigate Solution Problems: the business analysts has to perform a problem analysis on the solution if the is performed solution is consistently or repeatedly producing ineffective outputs, in order to identify the source of the problem.
The Business analysts should identify problems in a solution or solution component by examining cases where the outputs from the solution are below an acceptable level of quality or where the potential value is not being realized.
An inability to meet a stated goal, objective, or requirement, or a failure to realize a benefit that was projected during the Define Change Strategy or Recommend Actions to Increase Solution Value tasks might be caused by a problem with the solution or its components.
3. Impact Assessment: any problems identified with the solution should be reviewed by the business analyst, in order to analyze the effect that they may have on the operation of the organization or the ability of the solution to deliver its potential value.
In order to do this, the problems need to be analyzed for the severity, the probability of the re-occurrence, the impact on the business operations, and the capacity of the business to absorb the impact.
Once problems with the solution have been identified, they need to be grouped into those problems which need to be resolved, those problems which can be mitigated through other approaches, and those problems which can be accepted.
Examples of other approaches include additional quality control measures, new or adjusted business processes, or additional support for exceptions to the desired outcome.
In addition to identified problems, the business analysts need to assess the risks and potential limitations of the solution. This risk assessment is specific to the solution and its limitations.